Aug 10
30
Mt Belford Hike
Distance: 8.2
Elevation Gain: 4560′
Starting Elevation: 9,640′
Rating: Difficult
In my opinion, Belford has one of the best views from the top at least in this part of Colorado and rivals views from any
Peak Upon Peak Upon Peak
part of the state. Most people climb Oxford along with Belford and it’s not difficult to bag both of these peaks in one day. Just get an early start. We chose the route up Missouri Gulch trailhead that gains all of it’s elevation in 3.5 miles, so, yes, it’s steep. Make sure you’re wearing sturdy boots and have well rested legs. If you’re thinking about doing this hike or any other fourteener, acclimate to the altitude for a few days first.
The nice thing about this hike is the distance is short so it’s not a long, long slog just a long slog. The Missouri Gulch area is stunning and I’m happy that we came back an alternate route (I wasn’t looking forward to the knee pounding descent) that goes to Elkhead Pass and then down at a gentler rate. Missouri Mountain is dominate in this gulch area and the trail up to the top looks daunting. It is possible to climb Missouri along with Belford and Oxford if you have the energy and determination (it’s about 14.5 miles and over 7,000′ elevation gain). It would most certainly be a very long arduous day.
From the top of Mt Belford we were treated to a 360 degree view of peak upon peak. It was nice to have beautiful weather the entire day so we could take our time and just enjoy our surroundings.
